Former Republic of Ireland captain  Kenny Cunningham completed his move to Sunderland today.

The 35-year-old, who left relegated Birmingham City at the end of the season, moves for free on a one-year deal.

"It was clear that we needed leadership on the field and when Kenny became available, it was too good an opportunity to miss," club chairman-in-waiting Niall Quinn said.

"He will set the standards for the other players, in a similar way to Steve Bould did here, whoever the manager is."

Cunningham has been training with the Sunderland squad for the last week and could feature in tonight's friendly with Rotherham.

Republic of Ireland striker Stephen Elliott will miss that game having injured his hamstring in training yesterday but he should be fit for the club's friendly with Shelbourne at Tolka Park on Monday.